Can women with a bicornuate uterus undergoing IVF choose to have multiples (multiple pregnancies)?

Nov 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

A bicornuate uterus is a condition where the uterus is divided into two parts, but they share a single cervix and vagina. Therefore, as long as the structure and function of both uterine horns in a woman with a bicornuate uterus can support embryo development and implantation, multiple embryo transfer through in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be attempted. However, women with a bicornuate uterus may have abnormalities in uterine structure and function, increasing the risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, and difficult labor.

Generally, women with a bicornuate uterus can consider multiple embryo transfers during in vitro fertilization (IVF), but they may face higher pregnancy-related risks. Therefore, it is usually not recommended for women with a bicornuate uterus to choose multiple embryo transfers during IVF. Detailed explanations are as follows:

A bicornuate uterus is a type of uterine developmental anomaly in which the uterus is divided into two sections but shares one cervix and vagina. As long as both sections of the uterus in a woman with a bicornuate uterus have structural and functional capabilities to support embryo implantation and development, multiple embryo transfers via IVF can generally be attempted.

However, women with a bicornuate uterus may have structural and functional abnormalities of the uterus, increasing the risks of miscarriage, premature contractions, and difficult labor. Additionally, multiple pregnancies themselves increase maternal risks, such as higher chances of preterm birth and fetal distress. Especially when the structural abnormalities of the bicornuate uterus are severe and the uterine cavity is small, multiple embryo transfers are not recommended. If the patient also suffers from other reproductive system diseases, such as uterine fibroids, the risks of multiple pregnancies will further increase.

After embryo transfer during IVF, close monitoring of the pregnancy is essential, including regular prenatal checkups and fetal growth and development monitoring, to ensure maternal and fetal safety.

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Is it suitable for patients with hydrosalpinx to undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

In general, in vitro fertilization (IVF) refers to in vitro fertilization combined with embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Whether a patient with hydrosalpinx is suitable for IVF-ET depends on the specific circumstances. If the hydrosalpinx is mild, IVF-ET is usually feasible; however, if the hydrosalpinx is severe, IVF-ET may not be appropriate. Patients should communicate fully with their doctors, understand their own conditions, and follow medical advice.

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Can individuals engaged in high-risk occupations undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

In general, whether individuals engaged in high-risk occupations can undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) needs to be determined based on specific circumstances. If individuals in high-risk occupations have not experienced physical damage due to occupational factors, IVF is usually feasible. However, if their health has been compromised due to occupational impacts, undergoing IVF is generally not recommended. It is advisable to undergo a medical evaluation before deciding to proceed with IVF.